Florida Power & Light Co. (FPL) has amended applications it filed in St. Lucie County, Fla., to rezone properties proposed for wind turbine locations.

The amended plans will remove four turbine sites previously under consideration at John Brooks and Frederick Douglass parks and propose placing six wind turbines on property FPL owns at the St. Lucie nuclear power plant. The remaining three turbines are proposed for a parcel of undeveloped state-owned land adjoining the plant's property to the north.

"We support the desire of St. Lucie County to develop clean, renewable energy while also balancing the views of our customers and neighbors on land use," says FPL vice president Eric Silagy. "We believe that this proposal appropriately addresses the views of the community, county and state."

In June 2007, FPL and St. Lucie County announced plans to explore building a wind power project with up to nine turbines located on FPL, county and state properties. The revised proposal adds an additional wind turbine to FPL property. Under favorable wind conditions – such as those found on the Florida coastline – the wind turbines could generate up to 20.7 MW, according to FPL.

"I'm committed to bringing renewable power to St. Lucie County," says Chris Craft, St. Lucie County commissioner. "I appreciate FPL listening and responding to the public to balance the need for alternative energy opportunities with our right to enjoy public spaces."

A final decision is premature until the county completes an analysis of the pros and cons, Craft adds.

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